Call goes out for national park champions

The Scottish Government is on the lookout for people to join both the country’s national park authorities.

New members are needed for both the Cairngorms National Park Authority and the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Authority, both of which fall within the boundaries of Perth and Kinross.

The new recruits will be responsible for ensuring the natural environment and the local communities within the parks are cared for and sustained for future generations. They will also look to long-term goals such as prioritising conversation and rural development.

Five new members are being sought for each national park, who will need to attend committee meetings and take part in other activities a few days each month.

James Stuart, convener of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Authority, said:“This is a great opportunity to help shape the future of Scotland’s two wonderful national parks. These are special places which are of major significance to the whole of Scotland as well as to the people who live and work in the area.

“Board members act as champions for the national park, providing direction and overseeing the development, approval and monitoring of key plans and strategies. It’s important that our board membership both has the skills and passion to support our work in the national park and to represent people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.”

Peter Argyle, convener of the Cairngorms National Park Authority, added:“Being a board member of a national park authority is equally challenging and rewarding.

“There is a balance to be made between the aims of the park preserving the environment, ensuring that endangered species have the best chance of survival, promoting sustainability, protecting our cultural heritage, encouraging more people to come and enjoy what the park has to offer - while at the same time supporting the economic and social development of our various communities.

“Board members need to bring a wide range of skills, knowledge and experience to the role along with a great deal of enthusiasm for Scotland’s national parks to ensure they are in good hands for the future.”

Those interested can apply online at www.appointed-for-scotland.org/ how-to-apply/ by June 26.